Former Real Madrid GM Jorge Valdano is backing James Rodriguez to revive his career with the Spanish giants.

Valdano is confident that the Colombia international will take advantage of the opportunity given to him by Zinedine Zidane.

"James is a world-class player and if he is able to commit himself like he has, we have a player who is going to give another leap in quality to the squad," Valdano told Onda Cero.

"He is more mature and has learned along the way.

"I am convinced that he will be able to take advantage of this second chance and he will perform at his level."